Three political shows at the Edinburgh Festival 2025…

Cutting The Tightrope | Church Hill Theatre | 14-17 Aug
I just know that there are plenty of readers out there who will be keen to get their teeth into political shows and events, so here’s some of that: we begin with this thought-provoking collection of political plays that focuses on the censorship of artistic work, and explores the role of the arts in the face of oppression and resistance in contemporary times. Find the EIF listing here. 

Swiping Right | Zoo Southside | 12-24 Aug
This one isn’t really about any specific political issue, but I thought it was an interesting notion for a theatre piece to explore: Sophie Anna Veelenturf uses a blend of stand-up, documentary theatre and interviews to explore what happens when people date across a political divide, drawing on her own experiences – as a ‘lefty’ – of “doomed dates” with conservative men. Find the edfringe listing here.

The Festival Of Politics | Scottish Parliament | 20-22 Aug
Okay, so, this isn’t a show, it’s a whole gosh-darn festival, but as it’s only on for a few days – and I couldn’t decide which of the great events to focus on – I thought I’d just tell you to check out the listings yourselves. Lots of interesting discussions about important contemporary issues, as well as some appearances from high profile types like Clive Myrie and Pussy Riot’s Maria ‘Masha’ Alyokhina.